Large crowds have converged on Rio de Janeiro, with authorities anticipating up to 1.6 million fans for a spectacular free concert by pop icon Lady Gaga, set to take place on Saturday night at the famous Copacabana Beach. The city has invested in this event, believing it could inject around $100 million (£75 million) into the local economy to help revitalize tourism and commerce.
This concert serves as part of Lady Gaga's promotional tour for her latest album, "Mayhem," featuring hits such as "Abracadabra" and "Die With a Smile." Many ardent supporters, referred to as “Little Monsters,” began lining up early to secure their spots for the highly anticipated performance.
To ensure the safety of the massive crowd, a strict security operation has been implemented, involving 5,000 police officers, metal detectors, drones, and facial recognition cameras. Events like these are not uncommon in Rio; Madonna held a free concert on the same beach in May 2024, which garnered a similar enthusiastic turnout.
Fans from all over Brazil have made the journey to Rio. Luan Messias, 28, traveled overnight by bus and expressed his eagerness for Gaga to perform "Abracadabra," describing it as uplifting and reminiscent of her early works. Alisha Duarte, 22, arrived at the queue by 7:40 AM, declaring that the excitement and crowds wouldn't deter her — "Lady Gaga is worth it!" she exclaimed.
Concert-goer Paulo Oliveira emphasized the significance of Gaga's music, which promotes self-acceptance and individuality. "She tells us that we can be who we are, that we can be different and that being different is cool," he shared with reporters.
Anticipation is palpable among attendees, with fans like Lai Borges sharing their emotional expectations, foreseeing an unforgettable show that may even bring them to tears. As the sun sets on Copacabana Beach, it promises a night that will be remembered in the heart of Brazil.
